Robertteh,
I think monkey is right; this thread is about tourism and you are
out of point. 
However, you do have a point about insufficient support for SMEs.
There is some recognition of this issue and hopefully more efforts
will be made to support local entrepreneurs. The T&I Minister
has recently rejected proposal to form one central authority to
spur growth of SMEs. I suspect the conclusion is that local
entreprenuers will only play third fiddle to MNCs and our GLCs in
driving the economy.
On the issue of GLCs domination, I must say I prefer our model of
economic growth vs for instance, that in S Korea, where
opportunities go to chaboels and the wealth is held by selected
families. With our model, the wealth generated by GLCs is held by
the government for the benefit of the nation (hopefully).
Back to the topic on tourism, rather sadly, Spore lacks natural
scenic attractions. Our strengths are in tourism linked to services
such as education, medicine, conventions, media and entertainment
(Jakarta hosted a recent jazz convention, we should be able to do
something better), etc.
The authorities is supporting international events organised by
business groups. But, in addition to mega events such as the
forthcoming IMO conference, more incentives could also be given to
local business groups to stage events and conferences here.
Similar support could also be given to professional bodies, for
example, engineering, medical, financial, hotel societies, and
interest groups in, for instance, horticulture, tropical fish ,
rock climbing, diving, etc. This will draw attention to Spore and
raise the profile abroad as an interesting and fun-filled
destination.
Obviously the casino is the latest effort, having failed to secure
a Disney theme park some time back. Personally, I believe a casino
could be commerciallly successful and draw in tourist $$; however,
careful implementation with safeguards to minimise social cost is
absolutely essential.
